Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Silent / Mute: Describes something that makes no sound or does not express itself audibly. It often refers to emotions, actions, or states that exist without outward noise or verbal expression.
   • Quiet / Unobtrusive: Characterizes actions, efforts, or existences that are carried out discreetly, without seeking attention or publicity.

Usage Examples

• Adjective:
  • Anh ấy cống hiến một cách thầm lặng cho khoa học. (He contributes to science in a quiet, unobtrusive manner.)
  • Nỗi buồn thầm lặng của cô ấy không ai nhận ra. (Her silent sorrow went unnoticed by anyone.)
  • Cuộc sống thầm lặng nơi thôn quê. (The quiet life in the countryside.)

Advanced Usage

• Used to describe profound, often noble, actions or sacrifices that are not publicly acknowledged.
  • Những hy sinh thầm lặng của các y bác sĩ. (The silent sacrifices of the doctors and nurses.)

Variants and Related Words

• Âm thầm (adj): Secretly, quietly; often used similarly to "thầm lặng" but can imply a more active, enduring patience.
  • Cô ấy âm thầm chờ đợi. (She waited quietly/patiently.)
• Lặng lẽ (adj): Quietly, calmly; emphasizes stillness and lack of disturbance.
  • Anh ấy bước đi lặng lẽ. (He walked quietly.)

Synonyms

• Silent: Making no sound.
• Mute: Refraining from speech; silent.
• Quiet: Making little or no noise.
• Unobtrusive: Not conspicuous or attracting attention.

Related Idioms and Phrases

• Thầm lặng hy sinh: To sacrifice silently.
  • Người lính thầm lặng hy sinh cho tổ quốc. (The soldier sacrificed silently for the homeland.)
• Sức mạnh thầm lặng: Quiet strength.
  • Bà ấy có một sức mạnh thầm lặng đáng kinh ngạc. (She possesses an astonishing quiet strength.)

adj

1. mute, silent